Interview With Confidence

Leesburg, Va.: I recently submitted my resume for a position with a nonprofit. I e-mailed my resume and cover letter on a Saturday afternoon. The director of the center called me back at 10 p.m. that night, and wanted to schedule an interview for Sunday morning. Instead, I asked to have it on Monday, which we did. When I went for the interview, the director had almost no questions prepared to ask me, and seemed confused himself about what he wanted the position to be. Should I be concerned or is this all just part of the game?

Paul Powers: Many hiring managers are terrible interviewers - do not hold this against them. In fact, it is a factor in your favor. In a situation like this, try to help out your interviewer by asking some open ended questions to get the ball rolling. Such as, “What are the most important things you want this new hire to do? What are some of the most significant challenges your organization is facing?”

This interviewer’s rapid response to your resume may indicate that there is a particular aspect of your background that is of interest. Ask about this to uncover your strong selling points.

Centreville, Va.: I am currently looking for a job after a recent ‘corporate restructuring’. I have over 15 years experience, but list recent positions only to show 10 years of experience on my resume. In phone interviews how should I approach this issue, should I mention I have more experience (which gets me into the ‘age factor’ issue) or not?

Thank you.

Paul Powers: This is a tricky one. Perhaps what is helpful to remember is that your resume is a marketing tool not an autobiography. With that in mind, I would only include information that you think would be helpful.

If, at a later date, you were asked about the omission of five years experience, you could say something like, “At the time I didn’t see how my early jobs - which I am proud of -- were relevant to an assignment at this level.”

Bellevue, Wash.: I really don’t like to disclose my salary history/ current salary to potential employer! is there any way to avoid answering this question? Thanks.

Paul Powers: No. You must give an answer to every question that is asked. In “Winning Job Interviews” there is an entire section about how to deal successfully with the money issue. In short, there are two keys. One is to be as vague as allowable and the other is to focus on compensation for the position you are interviewing for rather than focus on your earlier (and probably lower) compensation.

Prince George’s County, Md.: I have some sensitive background information, which I would prefer only to discuss in person or by telephone. Do you accept phone calls of this nature?

Thank you.

Paul Powers: Due to my speaking/writing/consulting schedule I am unable to do this. However, you may send me a confidential e-mail to drpaul@drpaulpowers.com, and I will try to respond within a reasonable timeframe.

Washington, D.C.: If a company is going threw a merger are they required to tell you before you take a job with them?